The Churchill Observer- April 2014

Volume 38 - Issue 8

A National Blue Ribbon School

Friday, April 11, 2014

MCPS uses database to record and track inappropriate teacher behavior

By Ilana Berger Senior Writer

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Schools. It just keeps moving up the administrative ladder.”

Some parents also question why they are not notified when their child’s teacher gets entered into the database.

“If my child had a teacher with a record like that, I would want to know,” said Janis Sartucci, Parents’ Coalition member and former MCPS parent.

“First and foremost comes the safety of the children. This feels like the system’s biggest concern is the teachers.”

However, proponents fear that the serious nature of these kinds of allegations may cause the community to come to false conclusions.

“Everyone’s main interest is to protect the kids, but there may be

nothing to some of the incidents that are entered into the database,” Grundy said.

“For example, if I forgot to take down the paper covering a classroom window from a drill, and someone might think that wasn’t quite right. There may be a completely legitimate reason. It wouldn’t be fair to cast a teacher in that light—it’s like a conviction before anything even happened.”

According to MCPS’s Sexual Harassment policy, students should contact their Administrator or Principal for help with a sexual harassment issue.

They can also call a Human Resources Compliance Specialist at 301-279-3361, or the Office of Human Resources at 301-279-3270.

Features

CHS Families The Observer celebrates student and staff families within CHS.

PAGE 10, 11

CHS students, along with students in 17 other states, DC and the Virgin Islands, took an experimental Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) test between March 24 and April 11 to measure the validity and reliability of this new assessment and to measure students’ real-world skills.

The PARCC assessment, which will replace the Maryland State Assessment (MSA) and High School Assessment (HSA) in the 2014-2015 school year, is a computerized test intended to measure whether students are on track for a successful college and career future. The Maryland education curriculum has changed to the new rigorous Common Core State Standards (CCSS), which the PARCC assessment is further aligned with.

According to ccsso.org, states have “raised the bar” by adopting college- and career-ready standards, which challenge students to develop deeper understandings, think critically and apply their knowledge to the real world.

Race to the Top, President Barack Obama’s program to increase state educational standards, data, and teacher and low-performing school support, provides grants to states with plans to address these issues.

Though states are not required to pass CCSS in order to receive federal Race to the Top money, they must institute a more rigorous curriculum in order to receive the money. Maryland was among the first of the 45 states and DC to adopt the CCSS, with a unanimous vote from the State Board in June 2010.

The College and Career Readiness Standards (CCRS), Maryland’s own version of the CCSS, was implemented in the 2013-2014 school year.

“Maryland adopted more rigorous standards because many of our high school graduates were not adequately prepared for post-secondary study and careers,” Jenkins said. “Many of our students were required to take

Arts Arts Festival

CHS student artwork to be showcased at the annual Festival of the Arts this month.

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See PARCC, 3 PHO TO CO URTES Y OF TINA ZU.

Maryland state legislators consider a bill to raise school construction funding.

IMAGE BY JASMINE BATEN.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KEVIN BROWN.

News Building Funds

By Jordan Janis Online Editor-in-Chief Katherine Michael Staff Writer

PHOTO BY PABLO ROA.

MCPS prides itself in having the brightest students and most capable staff in the country. CHS has been a National Blue Ribbon School for years. However, no amount of prestigious awards can cover a serious problem MCPS has faced: incidents of inappropriate staff behavior towards students. Since 1999, fifteen Montgomery County teachers have been arrested for alleged child and sexual abuse of students. That’s one for every year.

In response, the Department of Human Resources and Development (DHDR) set up a database in August that tracks allegations of inappropriate school staff behavior towards students.

The database, which has been put to use throughout the county over the course of the year, is also known as the Inappropriate Interaction File. It is confidential and can only be viewed

by DHDR Director of the Performance Evaluation and Compliance unit, Robert Grundy, and Coordinator for Compliance Issues, Heather Dublinske.

“The principal fills out a form if they feel that there is a problem with a staff member, and has to check how it was addressed with the employee,” Grundy said.

The incidents that have been entered into the database include 26 that occurred this year and other problems that have occurred in past years. Out of those 26, one MCPS staff member was fired after having multiple incidents recorded on the database.

According to Principal Joan Benz, no CHS teachers have been entered into the database.

Although students are encouraged to report inappropriate behavior to an educator, many say that they feel uncomfortable doing so. This suggests that much of the responsibility to report such behavior falls on the educators themselves.

“I wouldn’t know who to tell,” junior Andrew Murren said. “A teacher is an authority figure, but they’re breaking the bond of trust with their students.

They are supposed to be role models, but they are doing something wrong.”

Opponents of the database worry that since only MCPS principals can request names to be entered, teachers’ inappropriate behavior could easily go unchecked.

“The principal is responsible for everyone in the school, so everything ultimately comes to us,” Benz said, “But in that case, the complaint would go to the Superintendent for Secondary

PARCC will replace HSA

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Friday, April 11, 2014

CHS families feel effects of Ukraine unstability

By Dana Harris Senior Writer Crimean citizens officially voted March 16 to leave Ukraine and to become part of the Russian Federation following the Russia Parliament approval March 1 to send thousands of Russian troops into Crimea.

Crimea is southeast of Ukraine, but used to be part of the Rus sian Soviet Federation of Socialist Republics (RSFSR) until they transeferred Crimea to the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic (UkrSSR) in 1954. Many have been killed and injured as a result of people protesting the government.

“The overthrown government in Ukraine right now is so unstable,” said senior Natasha Ivanina who has family in both Russia and Ukraine.

“Random groups of people go to the capital [Kiev] to start shooting and fighting people, and to take over governmental authorities.”

According to the CHE Center for Culture, History and Energy, many countries rely heavily on natural resources, such as oil, for economic power and to support a prosperous nation. Now that world leaders are looking towards natural gas as opposed to oil, Crimea seems even more appealing to acquire from Ukraine.

According to Ivanina, the benefits of natural gas are not as important to Russia as the fact that Crimea borders the Black Sea. The Russian federation would no longer have to rely on other countries for ports and drinkable water.

Even though Crimean citizens voted to secede from Ukraine and become part of Russia, many

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR.

Crimean officials and Russian president Vladimir Putin sign the Crimean referendum March 23. groups and nations worldwide, including the European Union and the US, have passed economic sanctions on Russia because of the unannounced movement of Russian troops into Crimea. In addition, the G7 member countries excluded Russia from the meeting and decided to move the June G-8 summit meeting from Sochi, Russia to Brussels, Belgium.

According to a March 31 Fox News Article, Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, have “different proposals” to de-escalate the crisis in Ukraine and calm the growing tension. Not only has this public discrepancy between the two nations caused diplomatic problems, but it also has resulted in the lack of trust between two

powerful superpowers.

The UN General Assembly condemned the Russian annexation of Crimea and has urged other nations to not recognize Crimea as a part of Russia. Russian sophomore Monica Oves believes that the UN condemnation has many underlying variables.

“Obviously what Russia did was foreseen but nevertheless extremely unfair on their part because it’s borderline criminal just for the fact that their annexation was in support of self-interest rather than legitimacy of reason,” Oves said.

“Eleven nations said that people should recognize Crimea which shows that there is some disagreement on such an issue which could give way to future problems.”

However, some CHS students believe that the US and the world have

blown this situation out of proportion.

“If the US had not attempted to meddle in Crimea’s affairs, then everything would be simpler and easier to resolve,” junior Katya Ellis said. “It is creating more conflict within Ukraine.”

Ellis’ family who currently lives in Ukraine, lives approximately six to eight hours away from Crimea, where they own an apartment and visit every summer.

“I don’t think it really makes a difference if Crimea is part of Russia or Ukraine,” Ellis said. “The only thing is that I’m used to visiting Crimea and it being part of Ukraine and getting there by driving through Ukraine. If Crimeans believe that joining Russia will give them a better life, then they should be able to join Russia and make the decision for themselves.”

county’s growing student body will lead to overcrowded schools throughout MCPS. “We need resources to expand and build more schools, as well as to improve the schools we already have,” Leggett said in a March 13 press conference with MCPS student journalists.

In his testimony before the Maryland House Appropriations Committee March 6, Leggett stressed that MCPS is “in the midst of a looming crisis” that will not be resolved unless the state provides adequate school construction funds to adapt to the growing number of students.

According to Leggett, since nearly half of the county’s schools

are projected to have seat deficits by the 2018 school year, school construction projects are necessary to make room for the growing student body. While the county and state governments already provide funds for this purpose, additional funding at the state level is needed to ensure that MCPS has the proper resources for the constructions and renovations.

“Traditionally, the county government provides a source of moneys for school construction, about 85 percent of the construction dollars that go into the schools,” Leggett said. “In addition to the local funds, the state provides a sum of money through its capital budget that they set aside for schools, and that amount has varied from year to year.”

According to Leggett, MCPS usually competes with other counties for $30-40 million of state funding each year. The bill, which was proposed by delegates from Montgomery, Baltimore and Prince George’s counties Feb. 7, would grant a substantial increase in funding for the three counties, which represent 44 percent of the state’s students.

“We hope for at least $20 million a year for the next 20 years,” Leggett said. “This is not through the traditional route; this is an unprecedented amount over and above what we traditionally get.”

While an increase in state funding for school construction may be necessary to accommodate the growing number of students, some CHS students believe the money could be put to better use elsewhere.

“Population might be increasing but we cannot just throw money at building new schools,” junior Katie Kidney said. “There has to be an increase in hiring teachers as well.”

According to Principal Joan Benz, however, school construction funding is crucial for schools that need to be expanded or rebuilt.

“In order to have a good education program, there must be adequate space for everyone,” Benz said. “It is very important to have a healthy school climate in which students are going to learn.”

Despite the possible benefits of an increase in state funding for school construction, it is unlikely that any resolution will come in the near future.

According to a March 7 Bethesda Now article, the proposed bill does not have enough votes from delegations outside of Montgomery, Baltimore and Prince George’s Counties, and getting the necessary support for an increase in funding could take years.

While the odds may be against them, Montgomery County and state officials continue to push for the legislation that they believe is crucial to maintaining MCPS’ strong reputation.

“If you ever go into a school that is run down and not well maintained, that environment affects everybody around,” Leggett said. “The state of Maryland is the top school system in the entire country, and a good part of that emanates right here from MCPS. We have the kinds of schools that people are proud of.”

MCPS pushes for increase in construction funding

By Pablo Roa Production Editor In an effort to prepare MCPS for the continued growth of the student population that is expected over the next several years, state legislators are considering a bill that would vastly increase the amount of state funding for school construction in MCPS. According to Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett, MCPS has grown by more than 2,000 students per year over the past four years and is projected to increase by 25,000 students over a 12-year span that began in 2007. Without additional construction funding from the state, the

PHOTO BY PABLO ROA.

Cabin John Middle School is one of several CHS cluster schools to be renovated.

Friday, April 11, 2014

News

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Students face realities of student loan debt Exam timing questioned

By Ana Faguy News Editor

As the college admissions process comes to a close, CHS seniors have begun to finalize their college plans.

Now more than ever, students are forced to look at all angles of the college experience, especially cost. With student loan interest rates increasing and the economy remaining stagnant, students must consider a looming burden after they graduate from college: debt.

Last year, Congress passed legislation lowering interest rates on student loans to 3.6 percent, but only for those students who took out loans after July 1, 2013. However, students who took out loans before July are grandfathered into the old interest rate of 6.8 percent.

“Students need to take financials into account,” CHS alumna Brenna Means said. “This day and age, grad school is

almost a sure thing like undergrad is.

If you have to take out loans for both undergrad and grad, you are going to be suffering from loans for the better part of your post-college career.”

Although interest rates have been lowered to 3.6 percent, students still feel the impacts of these loans, having to discuss where to allocate their money for the future.

According to a December 2013 study by the Institute for College Access and Success, 70 percent of the national Class of 2012 graduated with student loans, and the average amount of debt among students who owed was $29,400.

Some CHS students are making their college decisions based on their financial situation, and committing to an in-state school, for example, if it gives students more financial leeway.

“My decision was financially based,” Means said. “I opted for the

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE US DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.

To apply for financial aid, students must complete the FAFSA form.

University of Maryland because the education I could receive at all of the other universities I was accepted to was of the same caliber.”

For other students, their financial situation is not their top priority when choosing a college, but they do not disregard tuition completely.

“Depending on their financial situation it will effect what schools they can apply to, but even if there is no financial problem I think students should be involved and aware of the financial aspect because they will need to know how to deal with it later in life when they are on their own,” senior Claudia Barnett said. “I am not that worried about my financial situation when I get out of college, but I plan on supporting myself as fast as I can, so getting a job would be my financial worry after college.”

Katherine Liola, Certified Financial Planner and President of Concentric Private Wealth in McLean, VA, recommends parents have an open conversation with their child about what financial support they can or cannot provide. In addition, parents need to keep in mind that education can be financed but retirement cannot.

“For students who do have school loans, the greatest challenge, I see is finding the right balance of paying down the loans, while still paying other bills, enjoying their 20s and still saving for a rainy day and their long term future,” Liola said. “In addition, there can be a great deal of confusion around payment terms as well as an emotional battle with accepting the level of debt as part of their life for the term of the loan.”

AP freshmen enrollment at record high

By Emily Raab Online News Editor

As soon-to-be freshmen finish choosing their ninth grade courses, many are choosing AP U.S. History (APUSH) for their social studies requirement.

APUSH, the most popular freshman AP course, has seen an increase in freshmen over the past few years.

“This year I have three sections of APUSH for ninth graders,” APUSH teacher Amanda Marshall said. “Last year, I had two enormous sections, and the year before that I had two very small sections. Next year, I anticipate three to four depending on final registration numbers from the middle schools.”

According to APUSH teacher Rodney Van Tassell, next year, for the first time, there will be more freshmen than upperclassmen enrolled in APUSH. Although some freshmen may feel pressured to take the course because they want to make their college applications more competitive, others are enrolled in the class because of their genuine love for the subject.

“I decided to take the course because I personally like history and wanted to be challenged in it,” freshman Amreen Kanwal said. “I was not pressured to take it by my parents or counselors.”

Before enrolling, it is important for freshmen to research the class so they know what they are getting themselves into.

“You need to balance your course load so you have a positive experience your first year, because your workload is significantly more in high school,” Counseling resource teacher Robin Moore said.

Besides the evident collegiate bonuses, there are many other benefits for freshmen who decide to take APUSH. For example, the class is a smooth transition from their middle school history classes, according to Van Tassell.

PHOTO BY EMILY RAAB.

Freshman look at an APUSH review book to prepare for the college course.

“Taking APUSH as a freshman is a natural progression from eighth grade,” Van Tassell said. “While it is on a much higher level, there is comfort for students in that they know a lot of the history already.”

In addition, according to Van Tassell, freshmen pick up on important skills early on that they can continue to build upon throughout their years at CHS. These reading and writing techniques can also help freshmen who plan on taking more AP classes in the future.

Even with the increase in freshmen enrollment, a large population of CHS juniors and seniors still choose to take APUSH. Junior Katie Kidney is glad she made the decision not to take

APUSH as a freshman.

“It definitely would have been more difficult, and I would have been more stressed,” Kidney said. “When you’re an upperclassmen, you really know what to focus on in the readings and during class. Your study and critical thinking skills have become more developed, and the class is easier.”

Although there are many benefits of taking APUSH freshman year, it is important to remember that it is a college-level course, and that a majority of these students are only 15.

“It really depends on each individual student, what their maturity level is and how serious they are,” Moore said.

From PARCC, 1 developmental courses offered by two- and four-year institutions of higher education before they could enter into credit-bearing courses.”

The PARCC test aims to provide more of an insight into student preparedness for college and the work world with its innovative and thought-provoking questions than the current multiple choice questionbased tests.

“You’ve been taught for your entire school careers that answers can be found in ‘a, b, c or d,’ and industry says the kind of skills being tested is not actually what we need when we’re looking for people to work in our organizations,” said MCPS Superintendent Joshua Starr in a Feb. 24 press conference with student journalists.

CHS juniors in randomly selected English classes have taken these experimental tests with the mindset that they are mandatory; however, many students are against these random tests since they have had to miss classes.

“I felt they chose the wrong time and group to take the test,” junior Aaron Nadler said. “Junior year is very stressful, and having us miss class twice right before the quarter is about to end is very unintelligent.”

According to his mother, Gayle Nadler, the PARCC test is important because of the useful information it can provide, but she was disappointed that students were forced to miss another dayand-a-half of school after already missing so many with the snow, so she requested that her son attend regular classes instead.

“Teachers are moving classes ahead at a fast pace to keep up with the curriculum and make up for lost time because of the storms,” Gayle said. “This is stressful in and of itself. Topping that off with the additional stress of having to make up class work at this point in my son’s junior year is not in his best interest.”

Although administration responded acceptingly to his mother’s email request to take the test, other parents received different responses saying that the students must take the test.

Administration feels that though the timing is not ideal, these tests are beneficial and will measure students’ success more effectively than those in place now.

“I know we do a lot of testing, but once the PARCC test is online and replaces the HSA, I think it’s actually going to be a better test,” assistant principal John Taylor said. “It will be able to show us more about what the students know. Students will be able to demonstrate their understanding of common core and how they can really conceptually think about things and analyze things in a way that they can’t when the HSA is just multiple choice.”

While Starr believes that these standards and tests reflect necessary real-world skills, he and many other educators oppose the standardization of education and the excessive assessments that these standards provide.

“There are blinders on when it comes to these things that the policymakers think are good for kids when they’re in fact not,” Starr said.

“There is a lot of evidence that says they’re not, but it’s still what the policymakers want.”

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Observer Editors

Editors-in-Chief Katie Gauch Sammi Silber Chief Production Manager Katie Clem News Editors *Ana Faguy *Gil Jacobson *Kim Rooney Opinions Editors Fiona Asbury *Alissa Li *Kim Rooney Observations Editor Alissa Li Features Editors Julia Heimlich Danielle Kiefer *Hannah Yasharoff *Nathan Deychman *Emily Raab *Pablo Roa Arts Editors Madison Hurr *Julia Heimlich *Emi Cardinale *Eugenia Cardinale Sports Editors Michael Fox Julia McDermott *Ross Tanenbaum *Austin Kim *Ana Faguy *Thomas Atkinson Photography Editors Jasmine Baten *Pablo Roa Fact Checkers Eugenia Cardinale Ariel Levchenko * Production Editors

Managers

Advertising Manager Sophie Ascher Business Manager Daniel Miyares

Circulation Managers Emiliana Cardinale Emily Wang Contest Managers Nathan Gertler Arielle Gordon Public Relations Thomas Atkinson Nathan Deychman Hannah Yasheroff Adviser Kelly Knarr

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Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of staff, faculty or the student body.

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Editorial opinions are those of the Observer staff, and personal commentaries and cartoons reflect the opinions of their writers. Letters to the editor must be signed, and assertions must be documented upon request.

The Observer is a public forum for the purpose of expressing the views of and informing the Churchill student body.

Test change will not live up to expectations

ILLUSTRATION BY EMILY WANG.

The HSA, the MSA, the SAT, the ACT and now the PARCC. The lives of students at CHS are cluttered with the acronyms of standardized testing. With the alphabet soup comes the inevitable doubt: How much is too much?

Test after test, students’ patience is wearing thin. In a generation obsessed with gathering data, the one thing that really matters, students’ well-being, is overlooked.

The MSA/HSA tests have been outdated and are being replaced with the new and improved Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) test. The MSA/HSA tests did need improvement. However, perhaps it is not just one set of tests that is outdated, but in fact the entire notion of standardized testing itself. As each test inevitably

falls out of date, another “better” one takes its place. It is an endless cycle that students find themselves trapped in.

According to the PARCC website, the test aims to develop assessments that will measure if students are ready to be successful in college and their careers in the future.

While an admirable goal, it will be a very long time before a student’s aptitude for success can be confined to five answer choices. If we truly want to create a successful future generation of business-leaders, inventors, and innovators, then the schools should be doing more to ensure success rather than measuring its likelihood.

According to Principal Joan

Benz, 98 percent of CHS students go on to two-or-four year schools following graduation, so CHS students are already very prepared.

Such high statistics prove that CHS is currently doing an extremely good job in ensuring that students are destined for success. While there is certainly room for improvement, CHS students should not be taking time out of their academic day to contribute to data that does not affect them.

Supporters of the PARCC tests and other tests like it might argue that the data gathered through the tests will help bring other schools up to CHS’ level of success and CHS students are necessary to gathering accurate data. However,

being pushy. Same action, different results, different meanings.

According to sophomore Couty Fall, being called bossy wasn’t a big deal until she realized that if a guy took charge like she had, he would not have been insulted.

The results go far beyond some hurt feelings. Because most “bossy” victims are young, one blow to their confidence may take years to rebuild.

Young girls feel discouraged from becoming leaders or taking charge when given the opportunity for fear that they will be labeled as pushy or mean.

Is that really what it’s come to?

In a 21st century world, this society has girls holding back. They don’t want to be “one of the bossy girls.”

According to Principal Joan Benz, since bullying is in the “perception of the receiver,” the word “bossy” could be interpreted as a form of bullying.

“Ban Bossy” is attempting to get rid of this whole situation before it even begins. With “bossy” out of people’s vocabulary, young girls will have the self-assurance to declare themselves important and capable enough to take charge.

However, CHS girls haven’t let “bossy” jabs get to them.

They refuse to let a word change the way they act and think about themselves.

According to junior class president Hana Yen, when she was in elementary school, she was called “bossy” a number of times

but never let it get to her because she knew it would not affect her in the long run.

“Ban Bossy” exposes young girls to feminism and unifies them together under supportive famous figures and one phrase. “Ban Bossy” helps “bossy” victims to realize that there are people who care and want this to change.

But there are some people who think the movement is an overreaction. After all, how often is “bossy” used in school anymore?

With works like Little Miss Bossy and Taming of the Shrew still hanging around, it is obvious that this word has even managed to worm its way into children’s books, which is unacceptable. If young girls are going to get the chance to grow and feel confident enough to take charge and lead, then books scaring them into backing off and submitting to an alternate authority figure aren’t needed.

According to Yen, if there is a fear of being put down for one’s initiative to take charge, people, especially children, will be deterred from leading, which is reasonable enough to want the removal of such a word.

Others claim that there is no way that “Ban Bossy” can accomplish anything, since it would be impossible, not to mention unconstitutional, to actually ban the word “bossy.”

But they’re forgetting the point behind the movement. It is not

BSERVER O OPINION

if creators of the test want to observe well-prepared students and analyze the students’ success, then they are going about it in the wrong way.

In order to truly measure a student’s preparedness for college and a career, students should be observed in environments similar to the real world.

The problems that students are asked to work through and the tasks that students are asked to complete should require critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership qualities that actually create success in later life.

These types of tests would be beneficial in bringing the focus back to the students and reminding them of their importance.

Spending hours taking mindless tests does not teach students, but instead treats them like the subjects of an experiment.

‘Bossy’ brings bad name to future leaders

By Jasmine Baten Photo Editor

A group project has been assigned, and you’ve been paired with the three kids who don’t do anything. What do you do?

The answer seems obvious: take charge, delegate jobs, get the task done. But then what happens?

Inevitably, it’ll come, but usually only if you are a girl— “I don’t want to work with you. You’re bossy.”

“Bossy” is a word girls are tired of hearing. But they should not have to hear the word in the first place.

“Ban Bossy’ is a movement aimed at eliminating the word “bossy” from our everyday vocabulary because its negative connotation discourages its target, usually a young girl, from becoming a leader. Founded

by Facebook’s Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg and supported by famous figures like Beyonce, Jane Lynch, Condoleezza Rice and the Girl Scouts, the movement has gained momentum through its social networking campaigns.

“Bossy” has worn out its welcome and is now attacking girls’ confidence as early on as elementary school. Young girls who try to be leaders in school are immediately shot down, along with their confidence. When boys take charge, they’re assertive and exhibit good leadership skills, but when a girl does the same, she’s

PHOTO BY JASMINE BATEN.

Dr. Benz in proud support of “Ban Bossy” campaign.

possible to obliterate a word from existence, but it’s the thought that counts. If people think about the harshness of the word “bossy” and its side effects, then they might stop using the word or even pass the message on.

According to Benz, if people become conscious of the issue over one word, then that awareness will spread to related words and will eventually result in widespread support.

Hopefully, people can understand “Ban Bossy” and realize its importance. After all, in a country where there has yet to be a female president, it is time to get rid of the word “bossy” and start being the boss.

Friday, April 11, 2014

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Police may be beach week teens’ biggest threat

By Elizabeth Campbell Senior Writer

By the age of 18, a person could be drafted to fight for his/her country, enter a legally binding contract or be called for jury duty to decide the fate of another human. Yet, while the federal government places all this responsibility on 18-year-olds, many beach police treat these adults as children who only want to drink, do drugs and make lots of noise.

With summer right around the corner, seniors are beginning to firm up their plans for Beach Week. They have found their houses to rent and are finalizing contracts among their group, planning what should be a week of fun and celebration.

However, rather than being able to simply revel in the excitement of this week, teens are having to face danger from a very unexpected place: the police.

Police officers from beach areas, including Bethany Beach and Ocean City, have begun their rounds to various high schools in preparation for seniors’ beach week. Recently Lt. Billy Hocker and Sgt. Cliff Dempsey of Dewey Beach and Sgt. Brandon Elliot of Bethany Beach held a presentation Jan. 27 at Walter Johnson High School (WJHS) to talk to students and parents alike about Beach Week.

“In my experience I have never come in contact with a ‘beach week’ teen that has not been involved in

alcohol consumption or an alcohol possession situation,” Elliot wrote in an email. “I do not believe that the majority of them are drinking every minute of their week here, but I do believe they are all involved with it. It is extremely rare to find a completely dry beach week house.”

This anti-teen stigma that seems to have infected the police department is unfair to those teens who are just trying to go to the beach to enjoy a week with their friends. While many teens do drink at Beach Week, there also many who do not.

According to the Bethesda Magazine article, Dempsey told parents upfront at the Jan. 27 presentation that the police officers were not there to make friends or to tell parents their kid would be okay.

It is not a police officer’s job to parent children or teach them wrong from right, but it is their job to protect them. The officers should present themselves as someone teens can go to when they are scared or in need of help. Instead the officers presented themselves as people who are only out to catch teens doing illegal things.

In fact according to the article, Hocker said that the beach e mp l o y s a mb i t i o u s se a so n a l o fficers who want to make a name for themselves and are therefore more likely to chase teens. That is not acceptable. Scaring teens out of beach week is not the way to handle this celebration.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BETHESDANOW.COM.

Lt. Billy Hocker talks to students and parents Jan. 28 at Walter Johnson.

More than just being ineffective, these scare tactics could actually put a life in danger. Consider this hypothetical situation: teens at a party are drinking. Suddenly a boy begins to show symptoms of alcohol poisoning: excessive vomiting and even seizures. His friends want to help him, but they remember that if they call the police, they could wind up being arrested.

While the situation is regrettable, teens should never be in the position where they are scared to help their friend. Parents would want to know that if their child was sick they would be able to get the help they need. This “teens are the enemy”

mentality is not beneficial to the ultimate well-being of teens.

Beach week is a time for students to celebrate their 12 years of hard work and dedication. It is not a time where every single teen flees their parents for a week of drinking and sex. Police officers and town residents need to stop seeing all teens as irresponsible dangers and instead view them just as they do grown-ups; some make bad choices and are dangerous while others are upstanding, respectable members of society who are just trying to get a tan.

The Dewey Police Department declined to comment.

skill level and will be beneficial to test takers. They won’t have to endure countless hours of studying because their school curriculums will already thoroughly cover the topics and required strategies.

Also, College Board aims to create a more effective test that better assesses what students learn in school. This helps create equal opportunities for all test takers to get a good score, regardless of the amount of expensive prep. The new test is more reflective of knowledge rather than wealth.

In spring 2015, College Board will partner with online tutoring website Khan Academy to offer students free SAT preparation for the new version of the test. Currently, parents are spending an average of $100 to $200 per hour on private SAT tutoring, which gives the more affluent students an unfair advantage.

In Maryland, the percent increase of ACT takers was 78 percent while the percent increase of SAT takers was only six percent.

In order to compete with the ACT, which has grown exponentially in popularity, the SAT is scaling back its difficulty.

The old SAT takes off onefourth of a point for each wrong answer. However, the new test has no guessing penalty, just like the ACT, which means test takers no longer have to be afraid to take a shot and guess.

Furthermore, the new SAT doesn’t include the notorious, unconventional vocabulary that it used to. Instead of words like “concomitant” and “ignominious,” the new SAT will include everyday conversational words students will encounter in college like “empirical” and “synthesis.”

New vocabulary words on the test will be more practical and related

to what students will use in school and in conversation.

College Board will also allocate 50 minutes for the optional essay, which is double the amount of time given for the essay on the old test. Increasing the essay time is practical because it is unreasonable to ask students to write a quality essay in 25 minutes. The old essay followed a certain structure, and test takers were given better scores by the inclusion of eccentric vocabulary words and longer essays that included specific examples and facts to support the prompt, regardless of their accuracy. The old test didn’t assess students’ writing skills, but only their ability to fill in a predetermined essay structure with personal anecdotes and quotes that may not even be factual.

The new essay will utilize skills learned in English class, like analyzing a passage for tone and purpose. It also mirrors writing assignments in college, prepping students’ level of college-readiness.

Although students might lack incentive to write this optional essay, they may be motivated by the idea of showing colleges that they made the effort to show off their range of skills as much as possible by taking advantage of the optional section.

Students who are taking the revamped SAT in 2016 will be given all sorts of benefits from this renovation, making students who are stuck with the current SAT envious that they will not be able to take the new test. They will actually be tested for college readiness and won’t have to bear the unfair components of the old, detested SAT.

College Board makes much-needed changes to SAT

By Alissa Li Observations Editor Madison Hurr Arts Editor

Three letters, one test. The SAT. For lucky test takers, this dreaded test that is imperative for college admissions is completing transforming in spring 2016.

In early March, College Board announced that it will change the entire

structure of the test that millions of students have been tirelessly preparing for for years. These changes include the exclusion of obscure vocabulary words, the elimination of the guessing penalty and the return to the original 1600 point scale. In addition, the essay will be optional and will require passage analysis skills that are more applicable in college.

This new SAT is a more reasonable judgment of students’ actual

PHOTO BY ALISSA LI.

Prep books for the old SAT will not be needed due to free online prep.

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2014 Scholastic Art Awards What’s Online?

By Alissa Li Observations Editor Juniors Marisa Lu and Kelly Ervin earned national recognition in the 2014 Scholastic Art Awards as National Silver Key winners, and senior Emily Birnbaum earned recognition as a National Silver Key winner with distinction. Birnbaum will receive a scholarship of $1,500 for each year in college. All of the Gold and Silver Key win-

ners will be invited to Carnegie Hall on June 6 for a ceremony celebrating their achievements.

Regional winners: Senior Fahad Khan Senior Daniel Liu Sophomore Sophia Kim Honorable Mentions: Senior Alexa Trost Junior Zhen Huang Sophomore Sophia Kim

Biology Olympiad Exam

Friday, April 11, 2014

@ www.thechurchillobserver.com

Features: Fresh Market’s edible cookie dough allows people to enjoy cookie dough without health risks.

News: Jake’s Law makes stricter penalties for drivers who cause accidents while texting.

The Observer is updating its online content EVERY DAY! Check it out on www.thechurchillobserver.com!

CHS welcomes new staff

By Fanny Chen Senior Writer

By Alissa Li Observations Editor Senior Daniel Liu scored in the top 10 percent of students nationwide who took the Biology Olympiad exam. Out of nearly 8,000 students, Liu is one of the 624 students who will be advancing into the next round as a semifinalist, and he is one of 11 students representing Maryland.

PHOTO BY ALISSA LI.

CHS alum gives lecture

By Alissa Li Observations Editor Dr. Kevin Crutchfield, a ’79 CHS alumnus, gave a presentation to students April 3 about his research and background for treating head and neck injuries. Crutchfield, the team neurologist for the Baltimore Ravens, Baltimore Orioles and DC United, shared his knowledge of and experiences with sports concussions.

PHOTO BY ALISSA LI.

Crutchfield with son, senior Andrew.

PHOTO BY FANNY CHEN.

PHOTO BY FANNY CHEN.

Media Assistant Eileen Seligman Last worked at: John Poole Middle School Most excited about: Working with high school students on research projects, reading programs, and helping them get the skills necessary to be college ready Favorite pastime: Visiting presidential houses, historical homes, and Pennsylvania Pet peeve: Disorganization Favorite food: Bread, pretzels Favorite books: The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck Favorite high school memories: Newspaper, debate team

Financial Assistant Lynn Besch Last worked at: Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School Most excited about: Learning all the Churchill traditions and what it means to be a Bulldog Favorite pastime: Camping, collecting Barbie dolls Pet peeve: People who don’t say hello first.

Favorite food: Pizza Activities involved in during high school: Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD), pom squad, managing the track team Favorite high school class: American Sign Language

Education Foundation CHS International Night

By Sammi Silber Editor-in-Chief

By Sammi Silber Editor-in-Chief

The WCHS Educational Foundation is looking for a freshman class of 2017 representative. The application can be found on their website, which can be found by scanning the QR Code. The due date is April 25.

They are looking for freshman who wish to enhance and better the educational environment in the CHS cluster and the Potomac community.

CHS’s International Student Alliance held its first International Night on April 9. The event was held in order to embrace different cultures in the Potomac community. The night included different food from around the world, henna tattoos and cultural performances.

“It is extremely special,” junior and Alliance officer Shreya Navile said. “It gives a chance for the Churchill Student Body to celebrate and understand each other’s cultures.”

IMAGE BY SAMMI SILBER.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHS WEBSITE.

Friday, April 11, 2014

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Scotland program taking Potomac by ‘storm’

By Katie Gauch Editor-in-Chief

As soon as the timer starts, students focus on their timed multiplication practice problems, hoping to improve their skills.

Scotland Storm is a program that allows elementary school students, particularly those in the Scotland community, access to extra practice in order to cover the necessary basics in school. The program started in the fall of 2013 and aims to incorporate learning through academics and athletics with the help of volunteer adult and CHS tutors.

“We want to bring awareness to the program and involve the community to help the students in the program,” student director and freshman Carli Needle said.

The pilot program occurs after school every Tuesday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Students are provided transportation on an MCPS bus from Bells Mill Elementary School (BMES) to Cabin John Middle School (CJMS), where they are greeted with a healthy snack from founders and former CHS parents Chris and Lauren Meade. Students then spend one hour playing various sports, including tennis, basketball, soccer, baseball and general fitness, followed by another hour working on reading comprehension and math.

Initially, Scotland Storm was focused on sports; however, after seeing the beneficial connection between sports and academics, the program shifted to target both aspects.

“I think that as much as athletics play in the program, most of the program has become more of a lens of what students need to learn, and academics and sports are the ve-

hicles in which they are learning it,” said Roberta Wagman, MCPS coordinator for the program.

Scotland Storm chose the Scotland Community because it was under renovation, so they included “Scotland” in the name of the program. Due to the construction, children were lacking a facility to complete schoolwork, which the program provided.

The principals of BMES, CJMS and CHS have supported Scotland Storm, and Bethesda-Chevy Chase Baseball and Montgomery County Tennis Association have become involved by sponsoring the program.

Another unique aspect of the program is the academic portion, where students get the opportunity to learn math and reading comprehension together. Tutors are paired with a student and mentor them one-onon e fo r t he ent ire y ear, allo w ing time to create a growing bond and everlasting friendship.

“It’s certainly tough at times, but I do enjoy it,” academic coach James Kim said. “The best part is the reaction they get when they accomplish little goals, like addition and subtraction.”

Because the community has sponsored and supported the Scotland Strom with great enthusiasm, parents from other schools are calling to try to get their children enrolled in this school-based program.

“Here are other families who have a greater access to other programs wanting to be part of our program, and it has been truly amazing,” Wagman said.

Teachers have reported an improvement in attendance, behavior, assignment completion and

PHOTO BY KATIE GAUCH.

Scotland Storm combines academics and athletics in the Potomac area. collaboration with peers. The attendance to the program itself is also stellar, as the children attend by choice.

A 2014 summer program will be implemented, but for now, the program needs more time to become grounded and see how the students grow before the Scotland Storm expands, according to Wagman.

“What we’re really looking to do is first be able to main-

tain the program and be able to follow the students we first had from Bells Mill,” Wagman said.

“We’re looking at data, talking to teachers, seeing what skills they really need and working with those skills through the tutoring program and sports program and following them as they go on and progress into high school. We’re looking at this as a pilot for other programs in other communities.”

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Friday, April 11, 2014

theObserver

By Jamie Lescht Senior Writer

RAPE

FASD FUTURE

SORRY

THINK

comprised of student volunteers or “change agents.” These agents trained to become interns on the project and will assist in Rich’s CHS presentation, as well as continue to With the notorious prom and beach develop the project over the summer. week creeping up on students, CHS “By including teens in the ongoing is working to raise drug and alcohol development of the project, it will take on awareness through a new campaign a life of its own and become much richer that teaches seniors that it is “Better and more meaningful to the students to be Safe than Sorry.” who participate than if they were not Local psychiatrist Susan Rich started a part of the development,” Rich said.

The Better Safe Than Sorry (BSTS) camSenior change agent Carlye Hillman, paign in order to raise awareness about who is in charge of coordinating focus the dangers of alcohol and in particular, groups, first became involved after the consequences of drinking while preg- Rich contacted her. nant. Rich presented to seniors April 2 “I would describe the program as and discussed the dangers of substance a way of preventing teenagers from use as well as what alcohol the struggles “I would describe the program a n d u n p r o of transitiontected sex can as a way of preventing teenagers ing from high do to not just from what alcohol and unprotected school to college. you, but what sex can do to not just you, but what “‘Better Safe can happen afcan happen afterwards, and how Than Sorry’ terwards, and drinking and not knowing that was originally how drinking you’re pregnant can cause the baby developed as and not knowto get alcohol in their system .” an educational that you’re -Carlye Hillard ing curriculum for pregnant can a science and cause the baby health class that to get alcohol in was a spin-off project from a documentary their system,” Hillman said.

I produced in medical school,” Rich said.

Principal Joan Benz, hopes that these Rich first began working with CHS by change agents will take this information running a series of focus groups primarily with them to college and start a chapter

“

ALCOHOL

DEATH

WANT

WRONG

SEX

SECURITY

DRUGS

POISON

PHOTO BY KATIE CLEM.

DRUNK

RISK

SAFE

COLLEGE

CONSEQUENCES

Assembly warns seniors ‘Better to be Safe than Sorry’

raising awareness about these issues.

Additionally, for the students tired of being lectured about alcohol use, BSTS provides information for other teen-related issues that are often forgotten including the dangers of posting on social media when intoxicated, how to get assistance in college if a friend has blacked out, and the importance of taking a self-defense class before leaving for college.

“Dr. Rich raised many issues about staying safe and being protected by showing all these situations that I didn’t think about,” senior Ian Kash said. “I definitely feel more secure for the future and in college.”

On the contrary, senior Morgen Lewis thought the assembly was ineffective and did not have the same impact as the program “Every 15 Minutes” held in October 2012.

According to Lewis, she thought the presentation did not connect with students and the message was too broad.

Rich also discussed these topics in her blog which she hopes to expand outside the CHS community. The blog is run by BSTS’ information specialist Daniela Mielke, who first began working with Rich after serving as an au pair for four children who suffered from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD).

“They seemed to have a very short attention span and sometimes a hard time following and understanding the teacher’s

instructions,” Mielke said. “I knew I wanted to intern and to gain more experience and knowledge on psychological topics, so I met with Dr. Rich and she told me about her idea to create a blog for young women and men to inform them about a condition called FASD.” In addition to blog posts, Rich hopes to expand the site to include other forms of multimedia.

“For now we are hoping that our blog takes off and that we can use our work at Churchill to inform other communities about consequences of alcohol use during reproductive years,” Rich said. “The next step is to begin producing episodes of ‘Teen Connections,’ which are talk show format discussion forums we will upload weekly.”

With senior year coming to an end, BSTS serves to answer any questions students may have when transitioning from high school to college.

“For many seniors this may be the first time they go away and have complete in- dependence,” Benz said.

“There are going to be decisions that they make without consulting their parents, so the presentation is there to share the consequences.”

Friday April 11, 2014

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‘Beezing’trend swarming through CHS student body

By Noah Salzberg Online Features Editor

A new phenomenon has spread through the halls of CHS like wildfire, and this new trend is unlike many others.

Simply stated, it involves Burt’s Bees Peppermint lip balm.

“Beezing” as it is called, is to spread Burt’s Bees peppermint lip balm on one’s eyelids to obtain a weird yet enticing sensation.

“When you beeze, it’s like your eyes are eating a York peppermint patty,” senior Dilan Hettiarachchi said. “There is just this cool, minty sensation on your eyelids.”

With its unknown origin, beezing is a trend not only at CHS, but also around the country, with stories of beezing coming from the states of New Jersey and New York. Nevertheless, it is quickly spreading throughout the CHS population.

“I found out about beezing from my friends on cross country,” junior Eric Murray said. “I now beeze twice a week.”

The usage of the words “beezing” and “stung”—a word that describes the state after which you have applied the lip balm to the eyelids— may make beezing sound unhealthy and dangerous; however, it is not yet clear what effect health effects beezing may have on the eyelids.

According to a Burt’s Bees representative, Burt’s Bees “does not make any claims about putting the lip balm on the eyelids.”

“There is no downside to beezing,” Murray said. “The only effect is the cool, minty sensation on the eyelids.”

The common perception about beezing is that the minty, burning feeling on the eyelids helps keep the person alert and focused.

“I beeze to stay awake,” senior Nikhil Perincherry said. “It helps me to stay alert and always be on my ‘A’ game.”

As with all trends, many students in the CHS community are opposed to beezing because they perceive it as unsophisticated.

“The premise of beezing is one that appears to be very dumb since it is not something that you usually see,” junior Olivia Shannon said.

However, many opponents of the fad find no reason for people not to try beezing other than the possibility of looking strange while doing it.

“It is something people should try at least once to experience,” Shannon said. “It is a very interesting feeling.”

Whether beezing is just another fad to come and go through the halls of CHS is a mystery, but its legacy is one that will leave an impact on the students who have tried it.

“To quote rapper Rich Homie Quan, beezing makes me feel some type of way,” Murray said.

Junior Eric Murray “beezes” twice a week to stay alert during school.

By Hannah Yasharoff Production Editor

interests,” senior and future Brandeis University freshman Annie Lieber said.

“I could definitely see myself becoming friends with them in the future.”

Facebook interactions have also revolutionized the housing processes many students use to choose their roommates. In fact, some students who become friends through interacting online decide to become roommates as well.

“I found my roommate through a Facebook group,” 2012 CHS alumna and Pennsylvania State University sophomore Kim Deausen said.

“We were talking and had some similarities, so we decided to room together. I think it was a good decision because we got pretty close and are still friends to this day.”

Although it is nice to get to know your classmates before school, students should still be cautious when it comes to picking the roommate best suited for them, especially when they have not met face-to-face.

“Finding a roommate over Facebook could be a little deceptive because it’s hard to work out exactly what a person is like without more information,” Thronson said.

To help with this, many colleges invite their students to create profiles on online sites such as RoommateGateway. com, a website designed to match people with roommates who share similar personalities and living habits.

Colleges such as the University of Maryland include a similar survey within their housing application in order to help students find potential roommates.

Regardless of whether it assists in choosing roommates, Facebook has become an important tool in establishing and building upon important relationships in college.

“The people in the group may not become lasting friends, but it’s a fantastic way to introduce yourself into the community and have a way to interact with your class before arriving at campus,” Thronson said.

PHOTO BY NOAH SALZBERG.

College Facebook groups give seniors taste of college

PHOTO BY HANNAH YASHAROFF.

College Facebook groups help seniors meet future classmates before August.

Senior Alex Votaw will walk onto the Arizona State University campus this fall as a freshman. Instead of feeling overwhelmed and alone, she can take comfort in the fact that she is already acquainted with many of her classmates due to the Arizona State University Class of 2018 Facebook group she joined this spring.

Like Votaw, many other CHS seniors have joined online groups geared toward socializing with their future college classmates even before meeting them at school.

“It’s a chance to get an idea of what your school will be like,” Votaw said. “I love that I can talk to people before, so I don’t feel completely lost and overwhelmed when I get there.”

Many students have found that college Facebook groups are a great way to interact with future classmates.

“There are people in the group that I’ve chatted with and who share some of my

Features

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Friday, April 11, 2014

Families at CHS

By Caitlin Doherty Senior Writer Danielle Kiefer Features Editor

Many CHS students and teachers walk these halls not only with peers and colleagues, but also with their parents, children and spouses. The Observer sat down with some of these families to see what going to school with a family member is like.

The Dohertys

then

now

Chemistry teacher Wesley Russ has been working at CHS for 12 years, and three of his four children have walked the halls of the school. Mr. Russ currently has one child at CHS, junior Eric Russ.

“The best part of working at a school my son attends is that I know all of his friends, so I feel like I’m a part of his life,” Mr. Russ said.

While some teachers may feel like working at a school that their child attends could negatively affect their child’s high school experience, Mr. Russ feels that there are more benefits than disadvantages.

“I try to let him be independent and not influenced by me, but I enjoy seeing him at school,” Mr. Russ said.

While Eric admits that having his dad teach at his school can at times be frustrating, he enjoys the perks not many other students have.

“The best thing is that I get to use his microwave and fridge for lunch,” Eric Russ said. “The worst is that it can definitely be awkward when I am talking to a girl I like and he happens to pass by.”

Similarly, Mr. Russ also faces the awkward situations that come with having a family member at school.

“I had a parent who saw me driving around a cheerleader and reported me to administration,” Mr. Russ said. “Turns out, I was just driving my daughter to a football game.”

Mr. Doherty has been making fun of me since I was an infant. No, he does not bully random children. He is simply fulfilling the job of an older brother.

Mr. Doherty started working at CHS last year, at the beginning of my junior year. While his presence was initially met with hushed whispers and funny stares, most of my friends have learned to avoid calling him by his first name, and my classmates have learned not to complain about their Personal Finance teacher when I’m in the room.

“While teaching her friends can be awkward, for the most part it’s fun,” Mr. Doherty said. “She gives me inside information on students who I may have trouble teaching.”

While I may be helpful at informing him of his possible troublemakers, being school siblings is not without its awkward moments.

“I kissed Caitlin on the cheek on my first day at CHS, and was reported because staff and students thought I was kissing random students,” Doherty said. “Now I think everyone knows that we are brother and sister.”

The Russes

The Oniyas Resource teacher Bola Oniya also goes to work in the same building as her two sons, junior Adeola and sophomore Eniola.

According to Mrs. Oniya, she enjoys being close to her sons’ friends and says “some students even call me mom.”

Mrs. Oniya’s sons originally attended Seneca Valley, but she had them transfer to CHS to be closer to her and make driving easier.

“I like having my sons here because I can talk to their teachers and monitor their actions,” Mrs. Oniya said.

Although it was initially awkward attending the same school his mother teaches at, junior Adeola Oniya enjoys benefits such as having his mom’s car at school.

“The best and worst part is my mom knowing my grades before they are on Edline,” Adeola Oniya said. “It has both its downsides and its perks.”

Friday, April 11, 2014

Features

The Van Tassells

then

now

History teacher Erin Brown and English teacher Kevin Brown met while Mr. Brown was teaching at CHS and Mrs. Brown was teaching at Watkins Mill with Mrs. Van Tassell.

They started dating with the help of fellow CHS teachers.

According to Mr. Brown, he met his wife at a mutual gathering and “it took both the Van Tassells and Mr. Pulliam,” who went to the University of Maryland with Mrs. Brown, to get them together.

Besides the drawback of coordinating the time they leave school, the Browns appreciate that they can understand each other’s work problems due to them both being teachers.

“We understand each other well because we know what the other person is going through and trying to do,” Mr. Brown said. “If I talk about these things to a non-teacher, it doesn’t really mean the same thing.”

Working at the same school and also sharing a last name with two other teachers at the school can at times be confusing or awkward.

According to Mrs. Brown, her freshmen sometimes ask to go on a “field trip” to see Mr. Brown, which she finds “hilarious.”

“Sometimes her freshmen see me in the hall or peek in my door and whisper to each other ‘that’s him,’” Mr. Brown said. “Sometimes kids ask me if I’m ‘The Mr. Brown’; I tell them I’m one of them. They ask if I’m married to Mrs. Brown; I tell them I’m married to one of them.”

According to Mr. Brown, he and his wife are sometimes compared to the science teachers Clinton and Ginny Brown.

“Students earlier this year said something about how cute the science Browns are together,” Mr. Brown said. “I didn’t know there was a cutest staff couple competition, but apparently we are losing, and part of the reason is because we don’t even eat lunch together.”

The Mainwarings

then

now

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Social studies teachers Nicole and Rodney Van Tassell met while they were on the swim and dive team at the University of Michigan and began dating their sophomore year of college. When they both started working in Montgomery County in 1999, Mrs. Van Tassell was at Watkins Mill and Mr. Van Tassell was at CHS. Mrs. Van Tassell began working at CHS this year.

“The best part of working together is being able to see him during the day,” Mrs. Van Tassell said. “Things we used to talk about over email can be discussed easily at work, during lunch or on the drive to and from school.”

Another benefit of working at the same school is driving to work in the same car.

According to Mrs. Van Tassell, carpooling to CHS is “one of the best money saving moves” she has made.

Mr. Van Tassell also enjoys company on his drive to CHS. “It’s an advantage being able to ride in the HOV lane and have someone to talk to,” Mr. Van Tassell said. “The downside is that I used to be able to listen to politics and sports on the radio, which happens a lot less often now.”

According to Mrs. Van Tassell, working together can be challenging because Mr. Van Tassell is the head of the social studies department.

“The worst part is trying to be just another teacher in the department while still knowing I am the wife of the boss,” Mrs. Van Tassell said.

Overall, the Van Tassell’s try their best to keep their work lives and home lives separate.

“We have a lot of the same students,” Mr. Van Tassell said. “While I’m sure many of them think they become part of our dinner conversation, they don’t.”

The Browns

then

now

During English teacher Valerie Mainwaring’s years at CHS, her two sons have attended CHS with her, and her son Chris is currently a senior.

Mrs. Mainwaring enjoys going to school with her son not only because he can pick up lunch for her, but also because she is close to both him and his friends.

“It has been a joy being close with my son’s friends and having them as surrogate sons and daughters,” Mrs. Mainwaring said. “It helps me connect to my students because I know them personally.”

Because they go to school together, the Mainwarings are able to do things that they otherwise would not be able to do, although the other does not always appreciate it.

According to Chris Mainwaring, his mom sometimes tells his embarrassing stories to her classes. On one occasion, she came into his class and made everyone sing happy birthday to him.

However, the embarrassing situations can make for funny stories.

“One day, I came into my classroom, and I saw some stuff in the corner but couldn’t figure out where it came from,” Mrs. Mainwaring said. “Some students were snickering, but I ignored it. It turns out my son took out the shelves of the cabinets and was taking a nap in the closet. He definitely would not have done that if I was not his mom.”

Other CHS families: Clinton and Ginny Brown, Marianna Lancaster and Max Anstine

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Friday, April 11, 2014

By Julia Reagan Senior Writer It lurks behind you starting the first day of your freshman year. It haunts you with each essay you write, each test you take and each report card you receive.

It consumes your thoughts and conversations. It is the college application process.

As the end of the year draws to a close, juniors are approaching a critical point in their high school career, as they begin to stress over the grueling battle of applying to college. But have no fear; the Observer is here to give all the tips and tricks for a smooth sailing journey to higher-level education.

“I am terrified about writing all these essays while balancing school and extracurricular activities, but I am really excited to finish all my applications and be free,” junior Daniel Espinoza said.

Many thoughts may be swirling around in juniors’ large, studious brains: Where do I begin? What types of schools should I apply to?

Where can I find the applications and essay questions? How do I appear eloquent and interesting during a college interview? Before having an anxiety attack, take a deep breath and practice your “ommmm.” All of these questions and more will be answered.

The first step of the college application process is meeting with a college counselor to discuss university options based on grades, SAT or ACT scores, extracurricular interests and other factors. It is important to let your counselor know if there is a specific environment, such as a city, small campus or col lege town, that you are looking for, or if there are any particular academic or extracurricular programs that you would like to pursue in college. At the same time, try to keep an open mind because while visiting schools, you may discover that you actually prefer the opposite of what you initially expected.

The next step is building a list of colleges. This will not be set in stone and will likely change numerous times throughout your application process. Do not forget to include a range of safety, target and reach schools, but remember that safety schools are not always safe and do not be afraid to apply to extremely selective colleges because you never know what they are looking for.

“I wish I knew more about a lot of the schools I was applying to,” senior Kiana Givpoor said. “I applied to a lot of schools that I really knew nothing about, and I wish I had looked into them more so that I could decide if I would really consider going there.”

After creating a list of colleges that you are interested

in, it is time to pack up and take a road trip to visit schools. Spring break is the perfect time to check out schools, but it is also possible to take short weekend trips to tour the campuses and go to information sessions. These tours will go on rain or shine, so prepare yourself with an umbrella, warm jacket depending on the climate and comfortable shoes.

“The best part of the process for me was going to actually visit college campuses,” senior Jamie Bonan said.

“I liked trying to picture myself there and seeing if it was a place I would want to spend the next four years. It was a really good excuse to go on a spring break vacation.”

Do not forget to come armed with all your questions about the university. You can ask tour guides about anything from academics to the social scene to dorm life to the food. This is the perfect occasion to speak to real students and get all the underground info that admissions representatives may not give out.

“Take some notes so that you remember what it felt like being there, but don’t freak yourself out about it,” Bonan said. “It should really be more fun and exciting than anything.”

Colleges love to see students who demonstrate interest in them.

Visiting a school is the perfect way to show that you like what it has to offer, but there are other ways too. It is a very good idea to get in contact with the local admissions representative and show him or her that you are an applicant to be reckoned with. Be sure to explain how your academic and extracurricular interests make you a perfect fit for the school and to mention some specific programs that excite you. Additionally, in-school college meetings are another opportunity to demonstrate interest and get to know the university better.

At this point you have probably added or subtracted colleges from your list. This is completely normal and means that you are figuring out what you want out of your college

experience. Now it is time to begin thinking about the dreaded college essays. Many seniors have found that it is best to begin with the personal statement essay. This is the essay that you will most likely be sending to every college, and it should be a reflection of the type of person you are.

You may be asking yourself: how do I sum up my whole awesome being into a single 650word document? Decide which prompt resonates with you the most and then begin to think of how it applies to your own life in a unique way.

“College essays aren’t that bad,” senior Aicha Hadara said.

“You get to talk about yourself and discover who you are and what you are about, and it should show in your essays. The summer is a good time to reflect and gather as many ideas as you can.”

If you are having difficulty with the essay, do not worry.

Try to speak with your college counselor about any issues you are having. Simply speaking to someone who is not a friend or family member can get your brain flowing and help you decide what to discuss in your essay. Also keep in mind that this essay will probably be written and re-written many times.

You want this to be the perfect representation of who you are, so start with a basic outline and then refine word-by-word until you are completely happy with the finished product.

Getting this personal statement essay completed over the summer is a very good idea. It will likely take an incredible amount of time and brainpower, so it is wise to not to save it for the school year when you are consumed with homework and the rest of the applications. It is also helpful to look at all of the supplemental essays that are required for your schools and begin to think about how you will answer the questions.

College admissions officers read

CARTOON BY SAM LEE.

through thousands of applications each year, so try to find a unique and interesting way to answer the questions that are personal to you and will catch the officers’ attention.

“I would say definitely start applications over the summer,” Givpoor said. “Even though you want to relax, it’s so nice to be done with applications during the school year.” The best part of the process was finally finishing an application or even an essay and knowing that you are closer to being done.”

While they may be scary to think about, interviews are also a part of the application process for many universities.

Although they do not usually weigh heavily in admissions decisions, they are a great opportunity to express your interest in the school and show the committee who you are in person, not just on paper.

These interviews will likely occur locally in the fall. However, you can do on-campus interviews at some schools, so do some research before touring schools.

Though it may sound cliché, the most important thing to remember during interviews is to be yourself. The alumni or representatives that interview you are on your side; you just need to give them something to talk about. Also, make sure to come dressed appropriately and professionally, and bring a resume if you have one.

While it may seem daunting, the college application process is truly nothing to worry about if handled correctly. If you start early your applications early and take the time to really research your universities, you will be on the path to a stress-free senior year.

Arts

Friday, April 11, 2014

Samsung’s long-awaited successor to the Samsung Galaxy S4 will be released April 11. Features of the new phone will include water resistance, new security features, improved build quality and an updated camera. The new security features include a fingerprint reader and the ability to lock certain applications.

The updated camera enhances photo and video resolution.

Samsung Galaxy S5

The increasingly popular mobile game developed by 19-yearold Italian Gabriele Cirulli has rapidly spread throughout CHS in a matter of days. The goal is to slide tiles on a grid and combine them to create a tile with the number 2048. The game has been compared to Flappy Bird because of its rapid rise to success and because both apps are adaptions of previous ideas.

PHOTO COURTES Y OF FLICKR.

#Selfie

PHOTO BY ARJUN SWAMINATHAN.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR.

The Observer sifts through the hype and the hip to bring you topics worth talking, Tweeting and texting about.

The Elder Scrolls Online The developers of the popular The Elder Scrolls franchise released The Elder Scrolls Online April 4. The Elder Scrolls Online is a massive multiplayer online role-playing video game set on Tamriel, the continent from the other The Elder Scrolls games. The events of the story are nonlinear and take place 1,000 years before the previous game, the immensely popular The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

PHOTO BY ARJUN SWAMINATHAN.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Marvel’s latest film release and sequel to Captain America: The First Avenger is an action-packed blockbuster filled with stunning special effects and an intriguing storyline. Chris Evans (Fantastic Four, The Avengers) and Scarlett Johannson (The Avengers, Iron Man 2) reprise their roles as Captain America and Black Widow as they work together to prevent the HYDRA organization from destroying S.H.I.E.L.D. from the inside. The movie came out April 4.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier is a must-see for Marvel fans at CHS.

American DJ duo The Chainsmokers’ new song, “#Selfie,” is taking over the electronic dance music scene. “#Selfie” capitalizes on the trending use of the word which describes taking pictures of one’s self and includes spoken word verses between bouncing instrumentals. The song’s video has also gone viral, with 42 million views on YouTube as of April 1.

PHOTO BY ARJUN SWAMINATHAN.

South Park: The Stick of Truth

2048

By Arjun Swaminathan Arts Online Editor

13

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Arts

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theObserver

Friday, April 11, 2014

Arts Academy members prepare Capstone projects

By Kim Rooney Production Editor

Ever since she joined the Academy of Creative and Performing Arts, senior Leslie Sterling has been preparing to complete her senior capstone project—building her portfolio of photographs, choosing a theme and designing a poster to advertise her display.

Seniors in the Visual Arts focus of the Arts Academy are required to publicly display their artwork under a uniting theme, and most choose to do so between March 3 and May 16.

“It’s a culmination of everything we’ve been working towards,” Sterling said.

When students join the Academy, they choose among six focus areas and commit to taking four credits within their focus: Choral or Instrumental music, Newspaper, Theatre, Visual Arts or Yearbook. Most focus areas have strict limits on the courses that fulfill the in-focus requirements, and the Visual Arts focus area includes Photography, Painting, Digital Art, Sculpture and Drawing.

“It’s a nice little community to talk about your art,” said Jacquelyn Washam, Studio Art teacher and senior advisor for the Visual Arts Academy.

All Academy students are required to complete a capstone project, which shows off students’ dedication and hard work in their focus area. Depending on the type

PHOTO COURTESY OF LINDSEY STERLING.

As part of their project, students design a poster to advertise their displays. of artwork, Visual Arts members’ capstones are displayed on the Main Office panels, in the showcase or on the Media Center panels.

According to Academy coordinator Barbara Blazer, capstones “promote a sense of closure and achievement.”

While taking four additional arts credits, students in the Academy are required to complete an outof-school enrichment experience to sharpen and enhance their skills.

Visual Arts members are also expected to attend meetings where they share ideas and give feedback on each other’s art. Seniors also meet with the adviser in their focus area to plan their capstone project.

According to Blazer, capstones are also meant to recognize the four years students spend in a focus area “perfecting talent and skill,” as well as the “extra time they’re putting in, not just in the classroom.”

Because Visual Arts seniors can choose from any artwork of their high school career, their work begins from the moment they enter their first art class.

However, during senior year, they begin preparations for the show itself: working with Washam, choosing a theme and 10-30 pieces within that theme, preparing the pieces and putting them up on display.

“It’s a great opportunity to be able to display my photographs,” said senior Adam Anderson, who displayed his capstone project from March 3 to March 14.

Some members choose a theme that combines previously created pieces with current interests, resulting in themes such as Sterling’s Life in the Key of Color.

Others, like senior Carly Shapiro, choose a theme after finding the uniting thought or motif in the pieces in their portfolio.

“My theme is Black and White,” Shapiro said. “Some of my strongest pictures are in black and white, so I decided to focus on those.”

While not all seniors in the Visual Arts focus area plan on majoring or minoring in art in college, many plan on continuing in the arts as a hobby.

“I’d definitely like to continue in the arts for fun because it focuses your mind,” Sterling said. “I’ll always be an admirer of other people’s works.”

CHS looks to enhance 2014 Festival of Arts

PHOTO COURTESY OF GINNY BROWN.

Teacher Ginny Brown will display her quilt at the arts festival.

By Catherine Goohs Senior Writer This year, viewers of CHS’ annual Festival of Arts, held April 28 through May 1, will be able to see presentations from the performing arts classes, have the chance to participate in a silent auction and get to view faculty artwork in a special staff section.

The festival will feature one-act plays, instrumental concerts and a choral concert, fusing together the artistic styles of the performing arts classes as they perform, surrounded by work from the visual arts classes, which include photography,

ceramics, studio art and more.

According to resource teacher Paul Dermont, the Festival of the Arts has been going on for at least 20 years. Though it has remained relatively consistent over the years, research has been done to improve the festival in 2014.

“This year along with the faculty section, there will be a silent auction and a jury contest to vote on favorite art pieces,” Dermont said. “There will be prizes for the winners including a grand prize of a brunch for four at the Four Seasons Hotel in D.C.” Voting for favorites will take place every day of the festival, excluding the last day when the winners will be announced.

Molecular Genetics teacher Ginny Brown proposed the idea of including a teacher portion to the exhibit, something that was done while the CHS building was under renovation.

“This won’t be the first time the festival will include work done by teachers,” Brown said. “I’m happy that we’re bringing it back as it is really fun to see what people do in their free time; CHS teachers are full of surprises.”

Brown took up quilting in October and has since made seven quilts, ranging from patchwork and square-by-square designs to the more complicated “hunter’s star” and “trip around the world” patterns. In taking up quilting, Brown has found “instant friends” in the faculty who have been able to connect over their mutual admiration for the craft.

Along with about 10 other faculty members, including Dermont, Brown will be submitting some of her own work to be shown in the festival: two

quilts and a-count-and-cross-stitch.

“A lot of people view art as something you do in high school, but really it’s something you can do your whole life,” Brown said.

“Including teachers’ work to the program adds a certain continuity in that respect.”

Senior Tina Zu, who has participated in the festival the past three years, is one of the many students excited for the additions to the show.

“I love visiting the showcase every spring and bringing my friends because there are always many insanely amazing pieces of art,” Zu said. “Each year, I totally get inspired by others’ work. CHS arts teachers are really fun and creative, so I’d love to see what sort of work they produce.”

For her fourth and final Festival of the Arts, Zu will be submitting a watercolor piece entitled “Head vs.

Heart,” which took her approximately

four weeks to complete.

“I definitely went through this conflict when deciding on what I wanted to choose as a major for next year,” Zu said. “I found a way to listen to both, my head and my heart. I also let my fellow art students choose the titles and wrote their names down as authors.

For that reason, the painting has a touch of nostalgia for me.”

The festival serves as an opportunity for students and teachers to show off their best works, as they have developed their artistic skills over the year, while also helping get others interested in the arts.

Students and teachers alike, be they artists, art-admirers or those simply looking for a bit of creative inspiration will no doubt take away something positive from the Festival of Arts this year.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TINA ZU.

CHS students and teachers will get the opportunity to display their artwork in CHS’s annual Festival of Arts.

Arts

Friday, April 11, 2014

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‘Captain America: Winter Soldier’swoops into theaters

By Thomas Atkinson Public Relations Manager CHS Assemble!

Captain America, the world’s first Avenger and a fan-favorite at CHS, swung into theaters April 4.

“I like Cap because he is one of Marvel’s most interesting characters,” sophomore Enoch Lee said. “He depicts what America should be and not what it necessarily is today. Over time in the comics, he sees that humanity has come a long way but also sees that some things have changed for the worse.”

While critics rated the first movie as “so-so,” many CHS students loved the movie for many different reasons.

“The first movie was very enjoyable,” senior Matt Baris said.

“The costume was definitely better than the one in the Avengers.”

threat down and uncover the secrets behind this new foe.

However, students were not sure what the movie would hold for the leader of the Avengers.

“I’m not sure what will

Students had many theories about what will happen in the upcoming movie. Captain America 2: The Winter Soldier is set after The Avengers with Steve Rogers a.k.a. Captain America living in modern day Washington, DC and working with the Black Widow to help the spy organization S.H.I.E.L.D. After an attack from the mysterious Winter Soldier, the Captain must team up with the Black Widow and a new ally, the Falcon, to take this

happen in the new movie,” freshman Hall Smith said. “I don’t want to really speculate.

The trailers don’t give me a full idea of the story.”

Though Captain America is a very likeable superhero, he is not some students’ favorite. However, they are still excited for the new movie.

“He is not my favorite superhero,” Smith said.

“Although I like his simplicity, I like a dynamic and completely different kind of hero like Spider-Man.” While some see Captain America as just a superhero, others see him as a great role model.

“He shows patriotism towards helping people and serving his county,” said freshman Reed Goldstein. “He took the risk of getting injected with gamma radiation.”

‘Observer’ presents Top 12 shows to binge-watch

By Jane Zankman Senior Writer

While some of us get to soak up the sun on exotic islands or explore European cities during spring break, many CHS students are either going on college road trips or relaxing at home.

Binge-watching is a phenomena that has been fueled by streaming websites like Netflix, Hulu and HBOGo, where you can stream an entire television series straight from your computer, cellphone or tablet. Spring break is a perfect time to binge-watch a new series, so here is a breakdown of what you should watch over break, whether at home or on the road.

If you are looking for a shorter overall series, watch:

Freaks and Geeks Despite only airing for one season, this show has gained a cult following. It depicted the story of high school before every other show did. It’s not glamorized, and along with the laughs come the real feel of high school and the obstacles that come with it, big or small.

Series Length: 1 Season Episode Length: 45 minutes Available on: Netflix

Orange is the New Black This Netflix series premiered last summer and continues to cause quite a buzz as the new season is beginning on June 6. It centers on Piper Chapman, a well-off woman with a fiancé, who has to go to a women’s prison for carrying drug money years earlier. It is based on Piper Kerman’s memoir of the same name about her real life experience.

Although there are very funny moments, the show hits some heavy topics, such as human trafficking, abuse and sexual orientation.

Series Length: 1 Season Episode Length: 50-60 minutes Available on: Netflix

PHOTO COURTESY OF CREATIVE COMMONS.

If you are looking to finish a series at your own pace without worrying about catching up to the current season, watch:

One Tree Hill The series is filled with relationships, high school drama and the struggles of growing up. The show does touch on some heavy topics and has been growing its fan base, even after it concluded in 2012.

Series Length: 9 Seasons Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix.

The Office This series finished in 2013 with an emotional farewell.

Filled with office shenanigans and the search for true love, this series will have you hooked.

Series Length: 9 Seasons Episode Length: 20-25 minutes Available on: Netflix

Lost

If you are looking for suspense, mystery and action, this is the series for you.

Wrapping in 2010, this show is filled with discovery and danger as a group of passengers from a plane crash try to survive on a deserted island. It is an intense show that will keep you asking for more.

Series Length: 6 Seasons Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix

Friday Night Lights This series revolves around the story of Texas high school football players and their strong impact on their town. They explore teen issues with alcohol, love, college, athletics and the pressure to succeed.

Series Length: 5 Seasons Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix

If you are looking to “ship” a couple, watch:

The Mindy Project F i l l e d with witty quips and pop culture references, this show is relatable and hilarious.

Series Length: 2 Seasons Episode Length: 20-25 minutes Available on: Hulu

Gossip Girl Gossip Girl tells the story from the point of view of an anonymous blogger who reveals a lot more than New York’s elite prep school students want.

Series Length: 6 Seasons Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix If you want hard-hitting drama:

Breaking Bad This crime drama tells the story of a high school chemistry teacher who begins to produce and sell methamphetamine in order to leave his family financially stable due to his fatal lung cancer diagnosis.

Series Length: 5 Seasons Episode Length: 45-50 minutes Available on: Netflix

Mad Men This series takes a look inside the advertising agency Sterling Cooper in New York City, transitioning through the years as the early ‘60s become the ‘70s. Part one of the seventh season will premiere April 13.

Series Length: 6 Seasons, Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix

If you want to delve into the world of the supernatural or science fiction, watch:

American Horror Story J u s t finishing its third season, “Coven”, this series is great for horror lovers.

It is terrifying and thoughtprovoking, with each season telling a different story as it explores the supernatural.

Series Length: 2 Seasons Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix

Doctor Who Explore the world through time travel, as the Doctor, who is a Time Lord, goes on numerous adventures in his TARDIS. The Doctor must fight against enemies and help others as he voyages through time. With many specials, there is more than enough to watch.

Series Length: 6 Seasons Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix

Supernatural Sam and Dean are not your average brothers; they hunt supernatural beings and try to save innocent people. They go on many adventures and begin to develop abilities to help them fight these dangerous forces.

Series Length: 9 Seasons Episode Length: 40-45 minutes Available on: Netflix

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Sports

theObserver

Friday, April 11, 2014

Benefits of HD TV outweigh entertainment of live games

By Jonathan Greenzaid Online Sports Editor To the 20, 10, five, touchdown! The fans scream, hug, dance and cheer as the Washington Redskins score. Not only are fans at the game cheering, but fans are also at home, sitting comfortably on their couch watching on an HD television.

While going to a sporting event is always a great experience, watching sports live on an HD TV is more enjoyable. Going to a sports event can cost huge sums, take travel time, and the price of tickets, parking and snacks can quickly dig a hole

in one’s wallet. If you don’t mind shelling out tons of money, sports events are your niche.

According to a 2013 ESPN.com article, NHL ticket prices have increased by 5.7 percent since 2012, NFL by 2.5 percent and the NBA by 3.5 percent. The Washington Capitals have the highest average ticket price of all American teams in the NHL with a price of $79.25.

Unfortunately, an $80 Caps ticket usually means you’re paying for nosebleeds seats. Why not enjoy all the action of the game on an HD television as opposed to barely seeing any action at the game?

According to a 2013 CNN Money article, the average price of park-

WHICH DO YOU PREFER?

PHOTO BY ROSS TANENBAUM

CHS fans enjoy cheering for the CHS softball team in a live action game.

PHOTO BY JONATHAN GREENZAID.

Fans watch their favorite teams play while in the comfort of their homes.

ing passes in the NFL has more than doubled in the past 10 years.

The average money spent at an NFL game is $209 for two tickets, two beverages and one parking spot.

Sporting events also take a chunk of time from one’s day because not only does the game take several hours, but so does the driving time.

According to Google Maps, from CHS, it would take 45 minutes to drive to M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, 39 minutes to the Verizon Center in DC, 30 minutes to FedEx Field in Landover, and 33 minutes to National’s Park in DC. That’s without traffic.

Watching sports from the comfort of one’s home cannot beat watching on an HD TV which pro-

vides the action of the game with spectacular definition and great angles. The game can also be paused to take a bathroom break or to restock the chip bowl.

While some may argue that going to a sporting event provides an unforgettable experience by interacting with the crowd and seeing the best players play in person, others argue that you can have an even better experience by inviting friends over to cheer on your favorite team and bringing snacks to enjoy while watching the game on television.

Next time, instead of spending half of the day in the car on the way to a stadium, sit back, relax, save some money and enjoy any sports event from the comfort of your living room sofa.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Sports

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Fresh new jerseys improve Bulldogs’ look, play

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL FOX.

Senior Brandon Levenson passes the puck down the ice to his Bulldog teammate during the Wounded Warrior hockey game.

By Michael Fox Sports Editor The Bulldogs step out onto the field, proudly wearing their fresh new jerseys for the first time. The Under Armour with blue, green and white colors gives the team a look that no one will ever forget.

This year, some sports teams have upgraded their jerseys to give CHS a whole new look as a school this year. Consequently, what an athlete wears on the field may make a difference in how the athlete performs and what the athlete is playing for.

According to Booster Club head Larry Tanenbaum, some CHS sports teams usually pass down their varsity jerseys to JV after four years, and the varsity team will get new jerseys.

Uncomfortable jerseys can negatively affect how an athlete

performs because they can prevent an athlete from having a full range of motion or comfort. In the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics, for example, the U.S. speedskating team blamed their failure to medal on their newly-designed uniforms.

According to ESPN.com, the U.S. men’s speedskating team was displeased and decided to go back to wearing its older suits. The team’s jerseys may have been new, but the new feel and design of the jerseys conflicted with the team’s performance.

The varsity boys hockey team faced B-CC in the Wounded Warrior televised hockey game this year.

Specially for the game, the team ordered camouflage jerseys and was inspired to skate their hearts out.

“The new jerseys were made out of a lighter material and allowed us to do more with a different

design than the previous jersey,” senior Brandon Levenson said. “A jersey can bring the team together because when you have a cool jersey, you look forward to every time you’re able to put it on.”

The boys lacrosse team started this trend when they implemented new jerseys last year. Being the first team at CHS to have a green jersey, the Bulldogs made a statement by winning their conference championship while looking sharp in the process.

According to junior midfielder Derek Altobello, Deion Sanders’ quote “you look good, you feel good; you feel good, you play well” applies to CHS. The more comfortable and better looking a jersey is, the better the results of the team will be.

Along with comfortable jerseys, many different factors make up a

cool-looking uniform.

“Brand name seems to be the most important part of a cool jersey,” senior basketball guard Charles Halverson said. “Nike, air Jordan, Adidas and Under Armour are all popular right now.”

The boys varsity basketball team also enhanced its jerseys by honoring deceased teammate Evan Rosenstock. Knowing that Rosenstock would be part of the team throughout every game of the season, the Bulldogs put his initial on the back of their warm- up jerseys, which gave them an incentive to play their hardest.

“Wearing his initials meant he was with us out there, and he’s still very much a part of our team,” Halverson said.

A jersey is not just a piece of mesh, it represents something bigger. It represents uniting us as Bulldogs.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT MOSHYEDI

Boys lacrosse shows off their new jerseys during games last season, becoming the first team in CHS history to have an all green jersey.

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Volume 38 - Issue 8

Spring Sports Updates

Baseball

By Michael Fox Sports Editor

Despite having its first few games delayed due to poor weather conditions, the baseball team cruised past opponents, defeating Magruder 16-6 in the season opener.

The team has high hopes to further its previous regular season’s 7-10 record.

“It was great to go out and get that first win, especially against a team we lost to last year,” senior Nick Cohen said. “I feel that our team is becoming stronger and we have the ability to win many more games in the future.”

Last year, the Bulldogs won eight consecutive games to make it to the state semifinals.

“Early on, we weren’t playing as a team and some guys were down to injuries, but towards the end of the year, we started to believe in ourselves and each other, and it showed in our play,” junior Jack Langerman said.

PHOTOS BY PABLO ROA.

Softball

By Ben Fox Senior Writer

The girls varsity softball team looks for its first win of the season, despite its loss to Magruder in the season opener March 21.

With the change in leadership under firstyear coach Sharon Morris, the Lady Bulldogs are confident they will make adjustments from their 11-0 loss to the Colonels. “[Coach] Morris really knows what she is doing and has helped our team come together as well as improved our game,” senior captain Alexis Tanenbaum said.

The offseason provided the Bulldogs with a good opportunity to work on improving their capabilities as a team, and to better prepare for the new season.

“We have really been focusing on working on the fundamentals and preventing us from making errors,” Votaw said.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Coed Volleyball

By Michael Fox Sports Editor

Boys Tennis Boys Lacrosse

By Julia McDermott Sports Editor

Starting the season off with a 6-1 win against Poolesville March 24, the boys tennis team hopes to rally its way to a county championship title.

After consecutive wins against Damascus March 27 and B-CC March 31, the Bulldogs are gearing up to face rivals Whitman and Wootton in the regular season and at the county championships. Despite losing senior players the team is ready to step it up.

“The team looks very good,” captain senior Will Szamosszegi said. “Even though we lost seniors in our starting lineup, we have some great new players and the returning starters have improved.”

By Katie Clem Production Manager

The boys varsity lacrosse team has started the season off with a four-game winning record.

The team’s ultimate goal is to make it to the state championship by refining and perfecting little details with each practice, hoping that these changes will positively affect its performance.

“I believe, if we play to our potential, then we will definitely win the state championship,” junior lacrosse player Derek Altobello said. “We’ve got great players at every position that can help us succeed.”

5-0

girls: 5-0

Boys Volleyball

By Owen Hall Staff Writer

Girls Lacrosse

By Julia McDermott Sports Editor

The girls lacrosse team hopes to improve last year’s 10-6 record and earn the top spot in the region in its advance to the state championship.

In the regular season, the Bulldogs have had a strong start after a win against Northwest 17-0, March 22, a 20-1 win against Kennedy, March 24 and a huge 16-11 defeat of lacrosse powerhouse Damascus March 28.

“I am fortunate to have a terrific group of young women to work with,” head coach Jamie Frank said. “They are developing their skills and looking forward to a competitive and great season.”

Track

By Owen Hall Staff Writer

The outdoor track and field team hopes to continue its great success in the indoor season even with the difficulty of the snow that has slowed them down.

“On both sides, boys and girls, our relays will make it to states, so this year should be fun,”freshman runner Jalen Hill said.

The team expects to see freshman runners Rebecca Clem in the mile and 800-meter race and freshman Gwen Asbury in the 200-meter sprint and 400-meter race.

TheteamhashighhopestobeatWoottonin Friday Night Spikes April 11 at CHS. “It is one of the most fun meets of the year,” Clem said.

TEAM rECORDS* boys:

The coed volleyball team spiked its way to a strong 3-1 start to the season. The team beat Paint Branch, 3-0, and Blake, 3-1, to begin the year on a good note.

As the season continues, the team has high hopes for an even better result than its 9-2 regular season last year.

“We’ve been experimenting with different positions with a few players that worked out fabulously,” junior Alan Ha said.

The Bulldogs play at Watkins Mill, April 23, looking for another win to keep their season going.

Baseball 3-2

Softball 3-1

Tennis 5-0

The boys varsity volleyball team is off to a strong start with its 2-0 record.

The Bulldogs finished with a 7-4 record in the regular season last year and hope to improve with a new aggressive approach to the game.

“Being aggressive with our hits is important because it puts pressure on the opponent’s defense, making it harder for our opponent to execute a strong offense,” coach Erika Eastham said.

The Bulldogs hope to continue their winning streak with key players senior Andrew Tsao and junior Charles Yang and newcomers such as sophomore Luqman Bathaiian and freshman Bradley Soll.

The team’s big games are Richard Montgomery March 31 and Wootton April 7.

*AS OF 4/7/14

coed 6-1

boy’s 4-3

TRack

mEET ON aPRIL 11

Sports

Friday, April 11, 2014

theObserver

19

Boys will be boys, girls will be girls, despite proximity

By Katie Clem Production Manager

My experience on the girls tennis team has been crazy, just like any other girl on an all-girl team. We gossip, we tee-pee houses, we even sing badly when no one is around. Yet as soon as boys enter the picture, we girls on allgirl teams will close off and be much tamer than we were before.

This formal attitude we take on will last only until the boys pass by. Once they leave, we return to our normal behavior.

This rapid change in behavior will only happen about once or twice a practice for most girl/boy teams. However, for a coed team, where boys and girls are constantly aware of each other’s presence, this type of erratic behavior can happen more often.

“I would say girls play worse around boys because they try to show off and therefore worsen their performance,” junior runner and basketball player Isabella Wu said.

It’s a natural response to show off when the opposite gender is around. In elementary school it was the boys pulling pigtails and girls poking. In middle school, it was ignoring the other. Now on high school coed teams, boys and girls still try to show off to teammates to get their attention.

“For some people it doesn’t make a difference, but I’ve noticed that guys tend to show off more with girls watching,” junior swimmer Kyle Parisi said. “Not

just in swimming, but in other sports too and in general.”

Some people believe that these seemingly natural responses to the opposite sex’s presence have negatively affected a player’s ability and performance. However, this presence can also positively affect an athlete’s performance.

“I find that the really serious girls are a little more lighthearted in coed and they laugh a little more, but they are still really serious about their volleyball,” said Cindy Hillard, head volleyball coach for girls, boys, and coed volleyball. “What I do see on coed is a little more ‘razzing’ between the players. It is a wonderful thing as it lifts spirits and raises adrenaline so that spirits stay high.”

This “razzing” seems to be both a healthy outpost for a coed team’s competitive drive between genders and a good way to show off without jeopardizing one’s playing ability. However, a grey area within a coed team may exist.

“If anyone is dating within the team, it is often a tricky situation,” Hillard said. “Everything can be okay, and then with a split second change of something going wrong or a ball going to a different person, moods can change. I highly recommend not dating within a team.”

Some teams, like track and field, view dating among Bulldogs positively, awarding paper plates to the cutest couple.

“Coed teams are a great idea that could bring CHS closer together,” Parisi said.

“It’s an opportunity for people to make new friends they wouldn’t have before.”

PHOTO BY KATIE CLEM.

Boys and girls on track and field stretch together before daily practice.

Spring sports need same support as fall teams

PHOTO BY JULIA MCDERMOTT.

Despite minimal fan support, the boys baseball team got to states last year.

By Julia McDermott Sports Editor Students gather in a crowd to buy tickets for the big game. Dressed from head to toe in blue and green, they fill every seat in the stands, cheering CHS on.

While this might set the scene for a football, basketball or hockey game, most of the spring sports never receive

Soccer player commits

this much student support. For CHS, spring is the least spirited sports season, as even the most popular lacrosse games barely fill half the stands.

Whether it is the chaos of the fourth quarter or the temptation of the coming summer months, spring sports do not get the student attention they desire.

“Spring sports get the least attention due to all the events going on,” athletic director Scott Rivinius said.

support than softball does, which is not really fair,” senior basketball and softball player Alex Votaw said.

Even the track team, which is composed of close to 150 students, receives a minimal spectator attendance at meets.

“It’s hard to do well in a sport and not really have anyone to see it,” sophomore runner Andrew Zuckerman said.

For a school with an athletic program that is at the caliber of CHS, every sporting event deserves recognition and support from students.

“People are going to go to something that has fast-paced exciting action, and that’s the reason why track is less supported,” Zuckerman said. “Most people don’t like the idea of watching a five-hour meet to see their peers run from 11 seconds to a minute.”

With the spring season getting underway, CHS students should try to rekindle the spirit they had for the football team at the homecoming game or the basketball teams as they fought through the playoffs. Every CHS athlete should feel support from their peers, no matter the season.

‘Post’ All-Met Honors

By Julia McDermott Sports Editor

By Nathan Deychman Production Editor

Senior Josh Golob has committed to play soccer as a defender for Lafayette College in Pennsylvania.

Golob played for CHS his freshman and sophomore year and has played for the D.C. United U.S. Soccer Development Academy team for the past four years.

Prior to his time with D.C. United’s Academy squad, Golob played for the Bethesda Soccer Club, where his team won the NCSL Division I Championship and the Maryland State Cup. His club was also ranked fourth in the nation.

“Many early afternoon games and Saturday morning games and are on an inconsistent schedule due to weather.”

Football wins the contest for most tickets sold by a landslide, and combined with the sales from soccer and field hockey, fall is the most profitable sports season, with winter not far behind. The spring, however, does not even come close.

According to Rivinius, boys lacrosse, the most popular spring sport, only sells about 100-200 tickets for big games.

This lack of interest has nothing to do with the level of performance from the athletes.

Last year, the baseball team made it to the state semifinals after winning the regional championship for the first time in almost 30 years, the boys lacrosse team won its second straight regional title, and boys tennis ended Wootton’s historic 57game winning streak.

Nevertheless, none of these significant games and matches attracted anything close to the crowd that might be seen at a game for one of the big two—football and basketball.

“I think winter sports are taken a lot more seriously and have a lot more

The following CHS athletes were named Washington Post All-Met for winter sports.

Swim and Dive First Team- senior Mashal Hashem and sophomore Hannah Lindsey Second Team- senior Harrison Gu and junior Elaina Gu

PHOTO BY NATHAN DEYCHMAN.

Josh Golob commits to Lafayette.

Honorable Mention- junior Kali Becker, sophomore Elaina Faerber, sophomore Bridie Dunn and freshman Emily Wang.

Hockey Honorable Mention- senior Noah Fleishman, junior Ross Allen and sophomore Junmo Kim. Wrestling First Team- senior Hunter Sutton Indoor Track Honorable Mention- senior Emma Coleman

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Sports

theObserver

Friday, April 11, 2014

Will Nats see championship after 90-year drought?

By Jake Certner Staff Writer It is game seven of the 1924 World Series—the Washington Senators square off against the New York Giants. After 12 innings Washington pulls out a walk-off win. Exactly 90 years later, Washington, DC may finally get to celebrate a championship baseball team once again.

The season is finally underway for the new and improved 2014 Washington Nationals. With Cy Young Award candidate pitcher Stephen Strasberg, young All-Star phenom Bryce Harper, Silver Slugger shortstop Ian Desmond, and pitcher Doug Fister being added to the already ridiculously good starting rotation, fans from CHS have every reason to believe that the Nats could bring home The Commissioners Trophy.

Many different factors have to come together for a team to win the World Series, such as a good front office and team experience, but despite falling short of the playoffs last year, the Nats are looking their best since their arrival in Washington in 2006.

According to a Feb. 25 RantSports. com article, the Nationals’ weak season last year only gave the team more wisdom and maturity moving forward. The addition of Fister to the pitching rotation has only made this good team even better.

Thanks to a trade with the Detroit

Tigers, Fister is the most notable new player to come to the Nationals during this offseason. Fister will be the fourth pitcher in the Nationals starting rotation, which is a testament to the team considering he was the third for the Tigers. Posting an earned run average (ERA) of 3.67 and a 14-9 record in 2013, Fister gives the Nationals one of the deepest and most talent-packed rotations in the MLB. According to a Jan. 22 ESPN.com article, the Nationals rank as the second best rotation in the MLB for the start of the season due to the variation of style in the starting rotation and the depth of talent in the pitching lineup.

Everyone knows that pitching wins baseball games, so having one of the best rotations to start the season will be a major factor in the Nationals’ inevitable success moving forward. Backing the pitching talent with a solid field, good batters and smart management—as the Nats have continuously done—will be the final piece that will make this team championship caliber.

According to the Feb. 7 ESPN.com preseason power rankings blog, the Nationals are a top three team to start the season and “have no obvious weakness” in the lineup.

These high expectations are no fluke. Even though the team ended 10 games from first place in their division last year, the Nats became a dominating force in the MLB, holding a record of 32-16 following Aug. 7.

PHOTO BY PABLO ROA.

Lax players will soon incorporate the wall into their practice regime.

Lax wall installation to improve skills and drills

By Cristian Edwards Staff Writer The CHS Booster Club will be funding the construction of a $10,000 4x12 foot concrete wall this month on the football and boys lacrosse practice field.

The wall will allow the boys and girls lacrosse teams to play wall ball, a drill where the lacrosse player continuously throws a ball against a wall to improve his or her stick skills.

“The wall will help our lacrosse programs both in season and out of season,” athletic director Scott Rivinius said. “It can be used as a part of a structure of a practice, or for an individual player looking to get better out of season.”

The whole community will also have access to the wall.

“It can also be used for soccer, baseball, and potentially tennis,” Rivinius said. “It is in an area that is accessible for community use and also could be utilized by our physical education department, as well as Hoover’s.”

Senior boys lacrosse captain Matt Moshyedi plans to use the wall as much as he can and is thankful the CHS Booster Club funded and installed the wall.

“Building the wall was a very good idea,” Moshyedi said. “It is a great help for the lacrosse team and it doesn’t interfere with anything on campus.”

Moshyedi expects the wall to play a huge part in their lacrosse team practices because it will not only help the team get better, but will also greatly improve each individual’s talent.

“Players can use the wall in between drills and before and after practice to help improve their sticks skills,” Moshyedi said.

PHOTO BY JAKE CERTNER.

According to a March 25 Sporting News article, at the start of the year the Nationals have an eight-to-one chance of winning the 2014 World Series, tying for third best in the major leagues behind only the Cardinals and the Tigers.

Through smart management, excellence in play, and individual accolades, the Nationals continue to prove that they are a force to be reckoned with. Whether it be in their championship odds or pre-season rankings, people are noticing.

Many people argue that the Nationals do not have what it takes to be a World Series team because of

their new manager and weak season last year. This is a ridiculous notion considering that despite injury and the weak batting, the Nationals were able to place second in their division behind the Atlanta Braves.

On top of this, according to a March 24 UPI.com article, when the Nationals started to play at their best, they dominated the league.

As far as the new manager Matt Williams goes, the Nats will have no problem making things work with the new skipper, thanks to the already established excellent front office lead by award-winning Mike Rizzo.

By Nathan Gertler Contest Manager

The offseason acquisition of center Marcin Gortat has also contributed greatly to the Wizards’ success this season. The acquisition of Gortat marked the return of a true center and big man for the Wizards, a position they have been trying to fill since their last playoff appearance in 2008.

According to ESPN.com, Gortat is currently in the top 20 for blocks and rebounds per game in the league. With Wall and Gortat as the main centers of attention of the opposing teams’ defense, focusing on guarding the rim and closing up the driving lines, it has opened up spots for other players on the team to shine.

One of those players is forward Trevor Ariza.

According to a March 17 Washington Post article, the Wizards can attribute much of their success this season to Ariza.

He has been a veteran leader to the team on and off the court and has really been someone rookie players can look up to.

As part of the 2009 Los Angeles Lakers championship team, Ariza has definitely brought needed championship pedigree and experience to the Wizards.

Ariza is having a career year on the team, averaging about 15 points per game.

He is also seventh in the NBA for his three-point percentage at 42.1 percent Not only is he largely contributing to the offensive side of the ball, but he is also a factor on defense, at tenth in the league in steals per game.

“Trevor Ariza has been really good this year as a defender and an elite three-point shooter and Marcin Gortat has been a great rebounder alongside Nene,” sophomore fan Danny Silver said.

As a team, the Wizards have been impressive shooting from the three-point line. They’re second in the league in threepoint shooting percentage, only behind the league-leading, San Antonio Spurs.

With only eight games left in the regular season and playing a very shaky Eastern Conference, the Wizards are in a prime position to not only make the playoffs, but also make a run in them as well.

Winning season leads Wizards to clinch playoffs Having already clinched a playoff spot, the NBA’s Washington Wizards are finding themselves in a very unusual position this late in the year.

From 2008-2012, the Wizards underwent major roster overhauls including trading stars Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison in 2010. Ever since, the Wizards have had a reputation of being one of the worst teams in the entire NBA. This season, however, seems to be different.

“I feel that their season has gone very well compared to previous seasons,” sophomore Wizards fan Jacob Bochner said. “They have really shown a winning attitude on the court and off the court.”

The Wizards currently find themselves situated in 6th place in the Eastern Conference, with a record of 39-36, one and a half games behind the Brooklyn Nets, and two games ahead of the Charlotte Bobcats.

One of the main reasons the Wizards are so successful this season is the play of All-Star point guard John Wall.

According to NBA.com, Wall is 20th in the league in scoring, averaging 19.8 points per game, and sixth among all point guards in the league. He has also been a menace on the defensive side sitting at fifth in the league in steals with almost two per game.

Not only has Wall been instrumental in scoring, but he has also been the main facilitator for the team, averaging 8.7 assists per game, placing third in the NBA. Wall also leads the league in total assists at 653.

“The big reason they are contending this year is because Wall has raised his game to another level, really supplementing himself as one of the elite point guards in the game,” Bochner said. “He really understands that getting his teammates involved gives them a better chance to win.”